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BBC 100 Women Returns For 2020

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BBC 100 Women returns this month, shining a spotlight on women’s experiences around the world with a week of special interviews, inspirational masterclasses, documentaries, features and digital content across the BBC’s UK and international TV and radio services and online. 

In a year of unprecedented turbulence, this year’s theme is ‘How women led change in 2020’ and celebrates some of the scientists, public health experts, and healthcare workers who have helped us weather the storm of the global pandemic, as well as women from other industries who have all been leaders of change in their own way – from politicians, lawyers and architects to actors, writers, athletes, singers and those who have sought to improve the lives of others in their community.

Fiona Crack, Founder and Editor of 100 Women said: “Returning for the 8th year, 100 Women capitalises on the unique reach and expertise of the BBC’s 42 language services to bring together diverse stories of women’s lives and achievements from across the globe. In a year of turmoil, this year’s 100 Women List will recognise women who made a difference from a community level right up to international politics, and brand new for 2020 is a day packed full of online masterclasses led by experts on the List. But we’ll also be taking a look at how the pandemic has impacted women’s unpaid workload, and violence against women in the home.”


The 100 Women List 

The season kicks off on November 24th when this year’s 100 Women List will be announced, celebrating inspirational and often unheard women from across the globe – from high profile names to unsung heroes. For the first time, this year’s List will see the 100th spot left blank to honour all the women who made an impact and a sacrifice in this extraordinary year, and allow our audiences to fill it with someone meaningful to them.

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The 100 Women Masterclasses 

Brand new for 2020 is the BBC 100 Women Masterclasses on 30th November – a day of inspirational talks, mind-expanding workshops and ‘how to sessions’ streamed on BBC digital platforms and social channels. Guided by expert speakers including those featured on the 100 Women List, sessions will tackle topics such as money management, public speaking, sustainable living, mental health self-care, and practical tools and tips for our everyday lives. The sessions will cover:   

  • BBC 100 Women In Conversation – with three women who were behind one of the biggest social movements in 2020.
  • Rewriting the script – Making kids’ bedtime stories more diverse… and less sexist
  • Make yourself heard – How to find your voice and beat the ‘gender say gap’
  • Tips to make your cash work for you
  • Turn up the volume, girl! – How to create (and listen to) tunes that empower you
  • And mini – 6 minute drop-ins covering:
    – Get your mental health fix in 5 mins
    – Five top tips to live a greener life
    – Want to help build a more inclusive world? Stop being a friend and become an ally
    – How to stay social and beat ‘lockdown loneliness’

Women’s Unpaid Labour

100 Women will take a special look at the issue of unpaid labour and how much work women do for which they are not paid. Even before the pandemic, an estimated 16 billion hours were spent on unpaid care work around the world each day (source: UN), and it was women who bore the brunt of domestic chores, childcare and care for elderly dependants. Working with the UN, BBC 100 Women will publish new data on how the pandemic has impacted women’s unpaid workload.

Violence against women – ‘The shadow pandemic’

In 2018, 100 Women took an in depth look at intimate partner violence and tried to find the stories of the women behind the statistics. Two years later, with countries in lockdown, we are seeing a ‘shadow pandemic’ and a rise in violence against women in the place they are most likely to be in danger – their homes. In a special report, the BBC’s Divya Arya takes a closer look at the situation in India.

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Other documentaries and programmes airing throughout the season will include:

  • With exclusive access to Finland’s unique all-female coalition government, the BBC World Service’s Megha Mohan follows Prime Minister Sanna Marin as she navigates life at the top – and a global pandemic. (BBC World News [WN])
  • Presented by Kim Chakanetsa, a special edition of The Conversation will bring together women from this year’s 100 Women List to take questions from an online audience on how to build a brighter future after Covid-19. (BBC World Service [WS])
  • ‘Women in Power’ sees writer and broadcaster Mary Ann Sieghart ask what it takes to be a powerful woman and what holds so many back. (WS) 
  • The family watching the ground melt beneath their feet. Following three generations of indigenous women in Alaska as they deal with climate change. (WN)
  • Music has been a perennially powerful tool when it comes to protest. In ‘Rebel Girls Soundtrack’ Beatriz De La Pava looks at the ways pivotal events are reflected in songs, and how music paints a vivid picture of the social, political, economic and cultural landscape. (WS)
  • An update on last year’s look at Barcelona’s urban revamp involving their female mayor, architects, and organisations. (WN)
  • An updated look at last year’s investigation into our digital twins in ‘Women of the Future: My Avatar and Me’ (WN)
  • A special episode of Click will celebrate women in technology. 100 women will zoom in from around the world to ask a panel of tech leaders their burning questions. Plus visits to an all-woman team using Artificial Intelligence to aid IVF, and a quantum physicist choreographing a dance between a robot and human. (WN and BBC News Channel)
  • ‘The Mushroom Woman: The Story of Chido Govera’ will chart how a Zimbabwean orphan’s fascination with growing mushrooms grew into a foundation training thousands of other growers – mainly women and orphans – across Africa and the world. (WS)

BBC 100 Women 2020 launches on Tuesday 24th November, when the List will be revealed. A week of content will culminate in the 100 Women Masterclasses on Monday 30th November. BBC 100 Women season is powered, co-produced and inspired by the BBC’s 42 language services – telling women’s stories throughout the year.

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Adinkra International Arts & Crafts Show Set to Showcase African Cultural Heritage in Accra, Ghana

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The inaugural ceremony of the Adinkra International Arts & Crafts Show, hosted by the Ghana Export Promotion Authority (GEPA), is poised to be a landmark event celebrating the vibrant cultural heritage and artistic excellence of Ghana and the wider African continent. (more…)

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How To Improve Small Business Accounting With Customised Financial Solutions

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Small enterprises frequently encounter distinctive hurdles in the realm of accounting. Limited resources, fluctuating revenues, and evolving financial needs can make managing finances daunting. Yet, employing appropriate methods and tailored financial remedies enables small businesses to streamline accounting operations, attain more profound insights into their economic well-being, and ultimately foster growth. This blog post will explore how small businesses can improve their accounting practices through tailored financial solutions and customised accountancy packages.

Understanding Your Business Needs

The first step in improving small business accounting is understanding your business’s specific needs. Every business is unique, with its financial goals, challenges, and operational dynamics. By thoroughly assessing your business requirements, you can identify areas where your accounting processes may be lacking and where customised solutions can make a difference. Whether managing cash flow, tracking expenses, or optimising tax strategies, a tailored approach ensures that your accounting practices align with your business objectives.

Leveraging Technology for Efficiency

Technology has revolutionised how businesses manage their finances, offering various tools and software solutions to streamline accounting processes. Small businesses accounting solutions can benefit significantly from leveraging technology to automate repetitive tasks, track financial transactions in real-time, and generate insightful reports. Customised accounting software packages can be tailored to suit your business’s specific needs, allowing you to concentrate on fundamental activities while guaranteeing precision and adherence to financial management standards.

Partnering with Experienced Professionals 

While small business owners often wear many hats, managing complex financial matters may require specialised expertise. Partnering with experienced accounting professionals who understand the unique challenges of small businesses can provide invaluable support and guidance. These experts can provide customised guidance, assist in implementing optimal procedures, and offer continuous assistance to maintain the efficiency and effectiveness of your accounting processes. Whether it involves bookkeeping, tax strategy, or financial analysis, having a reliable advisor can profoundly influence your business’s economic prosperity.

Flexibility and Scalability

Your accounting needs may also change as your business grows and evolves. Customised Accountancy Packages offer the flexibility and scalability to adapt to your business’s changing requirements. Whether you’re expanding into new markets, launching new products, or facing economic uncertainties, customised accountancy packages can be adjusted to accommodate these changes. This scalability ensures that your accounting processes remain robust and relevant, supporting your business’s growth trajectory over the long term.

Conclusion

Practical accounting is essential for the success of any small business, but traditional one-size-fits-all approaches may only sometimes suffice. By embracing customised financial solutions and tailored accountancy packages, small businesses can overcome the challenges of managing their finances and unlock their full growth potential. Understanding your business needs, leveraging technology, partnering with experienced professionals, and prioritising flexibility and scalability are vital steps in improving small business accounting. With the right strategies, small businesses can achieve greater efficiency, accuracy, and financial insight, paving the way for long-term success. Customised financial solutions empower small businesses to take control of their finances and drive sustainable growth in today’s competitive landscape.

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The Future of Sports Betting: How AI is Changing the Game

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The Thriving Intersection of Sports and Sports Betting in Nigeria

In recent years, the sports betting landscape has undergone a significant transformation, driven by advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning. These technologies are not only changing how bets are placed but are also reshaping the strategies used by both bookmakers and bettors to predict outcomes more accurately. As AI continues to evolve, it is poised to revolutionize the sports betting industry, offering new opportunities for data analysis, decision-making, and personalized betting experiences. Let’s explore three key ways in which AI is changing the game in sports betting.

1. Enhanced Predictive Analytics

The cornerstone of successful sports betting has always been the accurate prediction of game outcomes. AI and machine learning have taken predictive analytics to a new level, enabling the analysis of vast datasets beyond the capabilities of human analysts. These technologies can process and analyze data from a variety of sources, including player performance statistics, team history, weather conditions, and even social media sentiment, to make highly accurate predictions about future sports events.

Machine learning algorithms learn from historical data and continuously improve over time, becoming more sophisticated in identifying patterns and trends that can influence the outcome of a sports event. This means that bookmakers can offer odds that are more reflective of the actual probabilities, and bettors can make more informed decisions. For instance, Rebellion Research’s proprietary machine learning model, which has a history of outperforming the S&P 500, could be adapted to sports betting, providing insights that could significantly improve the accuracy of bet predictions.

2. Real-time Data Processing and In-play Betting

One of the most exciting developments in sports betting is the rise of in-play or live betting, which allows bettors to place bets on events as they are happening. AI plays a crucial role in this area by processing real-time data from live games to update odds instantly. This not only enhances the betting experience by making it more dynamic and engaging but also requires sophisticated algorithms that can quickly analyze incoming data streams to adjust the odds in real-time. Premier League betting, with its blend of rich tradition and intense competition, offers unparalleled excitement and opportunities for bettors, driven by real-time data analytics and predictive AI technologies that are reshaping the landscape of sports wagering.

AI systems can track live data such as scores, player performance metrics, and in-game events to provide up-to-the-second betting options. This capability ensures that both bookmakers and bettors have the most current information at their fingertips, enabling decisions to be made on the fly. The immediacy and accuracy of AI-driven in-play betting offer a more interactive and immersive betting experience, significantly different from traditional pre-match betting.

3. Personalization and User Experience

AI is also revolutionizing the user experience in sports betting by enabling highly personalized services. Through machine learning algorithms, betting platforms can analyze individual user behavior, preferences, and betting patterns to tailor recommendations, odds, and promotions to each user. This level of personalization improves the engagement and retention rates of bettors, making the betting experience more enjoyable and customized.

Furthermore, AI-driven chatbots and virtual assistants can provide 24/7 customer service, offering instant responses to queries, guiding users through betting processes, and even offering personalized betting advice. This use of AI not only enhances customer satisfaction but also allows betting platforms to operate more efficiently by automating routine customer interactions.

 

The integration of AI into sports betting is transforming the industry by enhancing predictive analytics, enabling real-time data processing for in-play betting, and personalizing the user experience. As AI technology continues to advance, it promises to unlock even more innovative and exciting opportunities for the sports betting industry. The future of sports betting looks to be more data-driven, dynamic, and personalized, offering a richer and more engaging experience for bettors around the globe.

 

4. Fraud Detection and Enhanced Security

As sports betting continues to grow in popularity, so does the potential for fraudulent activity. AI and machine learning are becoming invaluable tools for identifying and preventing fraud within the betting industry. By analyzing betting patterns and behaviors in real-time, AI systems can flag unusual activities that may indicate fraudulent behavior, such as match-fixing or the use of insider information. These systems can also monitor for irregular betting patterns across multiple accounts to detect coordinated attempts at fraud.

Moreover, AI enhances security by ensuring the integrity of betting operations. Through the use of sophisticated algorithms, AI can help maintain a fair and secure betting environment, protecting both the bettors and the bookmakers. Enhanced security not only builds trust in the platform but also safeguards the reputation of the sports betting industry as a whole.

5. Market Expansion and New Betting Products

AI is driving innovation in the sports betting industry, leading to the expansion of markets and the introduction of new betting products. With the ability to analyze and predict outcomes in a wide range of sports and events, AI opens up new opportunities for betting in less traditional sports or in aspects of games that were previously difficult to quantify. For example, bets on individual player performances, in-game events, or even fantasy sports leagues are becoming more common, thanks to AI’s predictive capabilities.

Furthermore, AI enables the creation of more complex betting options and products that can cater to niche interests. This diversification not only attracts a broader audience but also enhances the betting experience by offering more choices to bettors. As AI continues to evolve, we can expect to see even more innovative betting products and markets emerge, further expanding the scope of sports betting.

6. Optimizing Betting Odds and Risk Management

AI and machine learning significantly contribute to the optimization of betting odds and risk management for bookmakers. By analyzing vast amounts of data, AI models can more accurately set odds that reflect the true probability of various outcomes, thereby maximizing the bookmaker’s margins while still offering fair odds to bettors. This level of accuracy in odds setting also enhances competitiveness in the betting market.

In terms of risk management, AI algorithms can assess the risk associated with certain bets or events and adjust the odds accordingly. This dynamic adjustment helps bookmakers manage their liability and ensures the long-term financial stability of their operations. AI’s ability to predict and manage risks is transforming the sports betting industry, making it more efficient and financially secure.

 

These additional points highlight the growing importance of AI in addressing security concerns, expanding the betting market, and optimizing odds and risk management in sports betting. As AI technology advances, its applications within the sports betting industry are expected to become even more sophisticated, further revolutionizing how bets are placed, managed, and secured. The future of sports betting, powered by AI, promises a more secure, diverse, and dynamic betting landscape.

 

7. Customizing Betting Strategies with AI

AI’s ability to analyze complex patterns and predict outcomes has paved the way for customized betting strategies tailored to individual preferences and historical success rates. Bettors can leverage AI-driven tools to analyze their betting history, strengths, and weaknesses, enabling the development of personalized betting strategies that optimize their chances of winning. These tools can suggest when to bet, how much to bet, and on what events to bet based on predictive analytics and individual risk tolerance, transforming the betting experience into a more calculated and strategic endeavor.

8. Enhancing Player Performance Predictions

Beyond team outcomes, AI is becoming increasingly sophisticated in predicting individual player performances, which is crucial for fantasy sports betting and player-specific bets. By analyzing data points such as player fitness levels, historical performance under similar conditions, and matchups against specific opponents, AI models can offer insights into likely player achievements in upcoming games. This capability not only benefits bettors looking for an edge in player-specific wagering but also aids fantasy sports enthusiasts in making informed decisions about their team compositions.

9. Streamlining Betting Processes Through Automation

AI and automation are streamlining the betting process, making it faster and more efficient for both bettors and bookmakers. Automated systems can handle routine tasks such as placing bets, processing payouts, and managing accounts, allowing bettors to focus on strategy and enjoyment of the game. For bookmakers, automation reduces the operational workload, minimizes human error, and ensures transactions are processed swiftly and accurately. This efficiency not only improves the user experience but also allows bookmakers to scale their operations effectively to accommodate the growing demand in the sports betting market.

 

The integration of AI into sports betting is transforming the industry in multifaceted ways. From customizing betting strategies to enhancing player performance predictions and streamlining betting processes through automation, AI is making sports betting more sophisticated, strategic, and user-friendly. As technology continues to advance, the potential for further innovations in sports betting remains vast, promising even more exciting developments for bettors and bookmakers alike.



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AFRICA FILM SOCIETY OPENS 2024 CLASSICS IN THE PARK WITH SANKOFA

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Haile Gerima’s critically acclaimed film ‘Sankofa’ will be screening at the Africa Film’s Society’s free outdoor film festival Classics in the Park on 30th March 2024 Akola Boni Park in Osu, Accra.  

Released in 1993, Sankofa follows a self-absorbed Black American fashion model on a photo shoot in Ghana who is spiritually transported back to a plantation in the West Indies where she experiences first-hand the physical and psychic horrors of chattel slavery, and eventually the redemptive power of community and rebellion as she becomes a member of a freedom-seeking Maroon colony. The film stars Ghanaians Kofi Ghanaba and Alenxandra Duah.

Over the past eight years, Classics in the Park has introduced classic African films ((1950’s – 1990’s) to young film audiences for free. This year’s edition will run from 30th -31st March and will feature two feature films and thirteen short films. 20240327 153502

Sankofa will screen on the first day alongside the short films: Second Wind (Canada), Fofo Means Father (Ghana), Doris (Ghana), Ampe (Ghana), and Rosenfield (Germany). 

Bound for Lagos, a Nigerian classic released in 1960 to mark the country’s independence will take centre stage on the final day alongside the short films: Broken Mask (Nigeria), Hooky (USA), Love in the Wind (Ghana), Bege (Nigeria), Rare (Ghana), Moon over Aburi (Ghana), Do or Die (Nigeria), and O.YO – On your Own (Nigeria). 

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Michael Adjetey and Ebenezer Okrah Call For “Change” In Powerful New Single

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In their latest musical collaboration, Michael Adjetey and Ebenezer Okrah have taken a bold step to address issues in African society. Their new song, titled ‘Change,’ serves as a powerful call to action, urging Africans and Ghanaians to demand accountability from their political leaders. The artists emphasize that the failures of corrupt politicians should not be tolerated or excused, and instead advocate for a collective effort towards positive change.

At a time when corruption and political misconduct continue to hinder progress in many African nations, ‘Change’ serves as a much-needed anthem for disillusioned citizens. Michael Adjetey and Ebenezer Okrah deliver an empowering message, encouraging Africans to take a stand against the rampant corruption that has plagued their societies for far too long. Through their lyrics, the artists emphasize the importance of holding politicians accountable and demanding transparency in governance.

The song ‘Change’ highlights the artists’ frustration with the lack of development and progress resulting from the actions of corrupt politicians. Michael and Ebenezer’s lyrics convey a sense of disappointment, as they express the belief that Africans and Ghanaians deserve better leadership. They emphasize that the failures of politicians should not be an excuse for the stagnation of their countries; instead, it should be a catalyst for change and collective action.

‘Change’ by Michael Adjetey and Ebenezer Okrah serves as a rallying cry for Africans and Ghanaians to address the issue of corruption in their respective countries. Through their powerful lyrics, the artists urge citizens to hold their leaders accountable and work towards achieving a brighter future. This song has the potential to inspire a collective movement towards positive change, empowering individuals to actively participate in shaping the destiny of their nations.

Ebenezer and Michael believe in hard work. However, they also affirm the believe that without God, nothing is impossible. They implore society in general to change from iniquities to holiness, for what shall it profit a man/woman, if you gain the whole world but lose your soul. “Change” is a clarion call for salvation, not only to the politicians, but to all humanity. So, going forward, if we say “OPUTUNUU”, you say “WA MA TSA K3 MI”. We’ve got to change inside y’all. Change MUST Come.

Audio Link : https://ditto.fm/eochange

 


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dESH.DUBS and Sailee Nyondo feature Jane Lilato to remember their late Rap Prophets crew member on ‘Joe Chibangu’

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Rap Prophets dESH.DUBS and Sailee Nyondo reunite for ‘Joe Chibangu’, their first collaborative effort in three decades! ‘Joe Chibangu’ is available on all digital streaming platforms globally here: https://songwhip.com/rapprophets/joe-chibangu

Zambian Hip-Hop pioneers dESH.DUBS and Sailee Nyondo have reunited for their first release in thirty years as members of Rap Prophets. If you were a fan of the illustrious group, their new song featuring Jane Lalito, ‘Joe Chibangu,’ is one you’d be fortunate to hear. It is long overdue. The eponymous track pays homage to the group’s late member, Joe Chibangu and will feature on dESH.DUBS’ June-bound studio album, “Mataglap”.

‘Joe Chibangu’ marks the first time the Rap Prophets have assembled since their 1995 self-titled debut album, which included the tracks ‘Take Time to Pray,’ ‘Leaders,’ ‘How Could You Die’ and ‘He Sent Jesus’. This high-flying Joseph Musaga-produced piece sees the two collaborate with another terrific Zambian artist, Germany-based Alec “Chichi” Katapazi, whose flair helped add more polish. Jane Lilato’s vocals tie the contributions of the three together in perfect harmony.

“When I was in Ndola to visit Sailee about two years ago, we never discussed music; Sailee even stated that he had given his guitar to his daughter and had ceased all musical activity,” dESH shares. “I never ceased making music and don’t intend to stop anytime soon. Anyway, I began to discuss songs that could feature on my upcoming album (“Mataglap”) with him while he spoke nonstop about how much he enjoyed painting and how he was exhausted by music.”

“At one point, I had plans to collaborate with Jane Lilato; I set up a studio, but it was impractical, so I returned to Europe. Work on “Mataglap” proceeded smoothly. I believe I had completed the projects; the album was nearing completion of mastering when I thought a track dedicated to Joe would be the right thing to do. Initially, I wanted to do a song but settled for an interlude instead.”

“While putting down my ideas for the interlude, I pondered the possibility of including Sailee; I sent him the song, and he specifically responded that I should include a female vocalist. I immediately thought of Jane Lilato; I then called her and the rest is, as they say, history. I am trying to persuade Sailee to start making music again with at least a few more tracks and possibly an entire album to sustain the Rap Prophets name.”

‘Joe Chibangu’ was mixed by Marcel van Ling and mastered by Ivo Statinski in Amsterdam. It serves as the spiritual successor to the group’s 1996 song, ‘How Could You Die’, giving the once-great musician a memorable send-off lovers of his craft will appreciate.

dESH DUBS has been relentless in recent years. He has released a stream of singles in collaboration with several other Zambian artists, including Shimasta, his Zambezi symphony comrade Milz, Ty2, Hamoba and Ariel, ahead of his forthcoming album titled “Mataglap”. ‘Joe Chibangu’ sees Sailee Nyondo join his long list of collaborators, taking anticipation for his next project through the roof.

Samantha Jane Lilato Sakala is a talented singer and songwriter whose passion for music started early in her home due to her parents being renowned singers. She experienced tragic events during her upbringing that influenced her writing style to become more emotion-driven. One of Jane’s career highlights has been providing the theme song and soundtracks to the renowned ZNBC TV show Butuku. Lilato continues to appeal to diverse audiences with her polarizing brand. She aspires to use music to tackle problems many Christians and people find uncomfortable to discuss. Her ultimate goal is to provide hope and comfort to anyone going through personal trauma and struggling with negative emotions and mental health issues.

Zambian music veteran, Joe Chibangu passed away on February 3, 2017, aged 41. He was an Azami award winner and a two-time KORA awards nominee. Chibangu was best known for his debut album, “The Ambassador”, a name he would become known for and other hit songs like ‘Na Bwalya,’ ‘Shibuka (Kamale)’ and ‘Bana Malama’, among others. Throughout his career, he was a part of many groups, including Rap Prophets, one of the first rap groups to gain popularity in Zambia and feature on Sounds Good. Other groups associated with Chibangu include B-Sharp, Melt Down and Yesu Culture.

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